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Bus Driver Instructor Jobs in Sacramento, CA (NOW HIRING)

Salvation Army

Administrative Assistant

North Highlands, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

Pre-screen and assists clients seeking a bus pass and/or food box. * Pre-screens and pre-qualifies ... Must possess a valid California Class C Driver License , and ability to drive a Salvation Army ...

All JobsBus Driver Instructor JobsBus Driver Instructor Jobs in Sacramento, CA

Bus Driver Instructor information

See Sacramento, CA salary details

$9

$22

$32

How much do bus driver instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for bus driver instructor in Sacramento, CA is $22.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $25.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bus driver instructor?

Bus Driver Instructors are professionals responsible for training new and existing bus drivers on safe driving practices, vehicle operation, and compliance with transportation regulations. They provide both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training to ensure drivers meet licensing and safety standards. Instructors also assess driver performance, deliver refresher courses, and stay updated on changes in laws and technologies related to bus operations. Their work helps ensure the safety of passengers and the general public.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bus driver instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bus Driver Instructor, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), thorough knowledge of traffic laws, and experience in commercial or school bus driving. Familiarity with training materials, simulation tools, and state-mandated certification programs is typically required. Patience, clear communication, and strong observation skills help instructors effectively teach and assess aspiring drivers. These skills are vital to ensure new drivers are safe, competent, and compliant with transportation regulations.

What are some common challenges bus driver instructors face when training new drivers?

Bus Driver Instructors often encounter challenges such as varying skill levels among trainees, language barriers, and helping trainees overcome nervousness behind the wheel. Instructors must adapt their teaching methods to match individual learning paces while ensuring all safety regulations and operational procedures are understood and followed. Additionally, they frequently conduct hands-on training in real traffic conditions, which requires patience, clear communication, and quick decision-making to maintain safety for everyone involved.

What is the difference between Bus Driver Instructor vs Bus Driver?

AspectBus Driver InstructorBus Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), Instructor CertificationCommercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, classrooms, on-road instructionOn the road, transporting passengers
Employer & Industry UsageTraining schools, transit agencies, private companiesPublic transit agencies, school districts, private transport
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for training roles, certification requirementsFocuses on driving, passenger safety, route management

The main difference is that a Bus Driver Instructor trains and certifies new bus drivers, requiring additional instructor certifications, while a Bus Driver primarily operates the vehicle and transports passengers. The instructor role emphasizes training, safety education, and certification, whereas the bus driver role focuses on driving skills and passenger service.

How quickly can you become a bus driver instructor?

Becoming a bus driver instructor typically requires prior experience as a bus driver, which can take several months to a year depending on the employer's training program. After gaining driving experience and obtaining necessary certifications, such as a commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, individuals can usually complete instructor training programs in a few weeks to a few months. The total time to become a bus driver instructor varies based on state requirements and the individual's prior experience.

How to become a bus driver instructor?

To become a bus driver instructor, candidates typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, along with several years of driving experience. They must also complete a specialized instructor training program and pass a certification exam, demonstrating knowledge of safety protocols and teaching methods. Some regions require background checks and ongoing training to maintain certification.

Is there still a demand for bus driver instructors?

Yes, there is ongoing demand for bus driver instructors as transportation agencies and schools require qualified trainers to ensure safety and compliance. The role often requires certifications and experience in driving and instruction, with employment opportunities influenced by transportation needs and workforce development initiatives.

What does it take to become a bus driver instructor?

To become a bus driver instructor, candidates typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsements, along with several years of driving experience. They often must complete a specialized instructor training program and pass a certification exam to demonstrate teaching ability and knowledge of safety protocols.

What are popular job titles related to Bus Driver Instructor jobs in Sacramento, CA?

For Bus Driver Instructor jobs in Sacramento, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Bus Driver Instructor jobs in Sacramento, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Bus Driver Instructor jobs in Sacramento, CA are:

What cities near Sacramento, CA are hiring for Bus Driver Instructor jobs?

Cities near Sacramento, CA with the most Bus Driver Instructor job openings:

Bus Driver Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bus Driver Instructor job openings in Sacramento, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,717 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Bus Driver Instructor - 8 hrs/day (Transportation)

Sacramento, CA

Twin Rivers Unified School District
See more jobs at Twin Rivers Unified School Districtexternal

$27.28 - $36.09/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Bus Driver Instructor - 8 hrs/day (Transportation/PC#251259)
Position Summary: Plans, prepares, and conducts individual and group training programs for school bus and other drivers. Conducts skill evaluations and facilitates testing, certification, and licensing of drivers. Drives a school bus over designated routes for the purpose of transporting students to and from school and on special trips.

Please click here to view all TRUSD job descriptions in full detail.

Application Deadline: Until Filled
Work Year: 12 Months
Employee Type: Full-Time
Salary: $27.28 - $36.09 per hour in 9 annual steps. Salary placement is based on relevant experience.
Location: Transportation
Hours: 8 hours/day; 5 days/week
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, and Employee Life Insurance available for employees who work 4+ hours per day (Full district contribution for 6+ hours/day; 50% contribution for 4-5.99 hours/day).

Education and Experience: The position requires a high school diploma and 5 years of school bus and related transportation experience.

Licenses and Certifications: California Special Driver Certificate. Class A and B Commercial Driver License with School Bus, Passenger and Air Brake endorsements. State of California Bus Driver Instructor Certificate with zero restrictions. First Aid Card.

Documents (all of the following documents are required for this position):

  • Certificate Copy (School Bus Driver Instructor Certificate (issued by CA Dept of Ed, Office of School Trans))

  • Certification (DMV DL 45 - Special certificate to drive a school bus in CA)

  • Copy of Transcript (T-01 - Copy of State Department of Education Training Certificate)

  • CPR/First Aid Certification (First Aid Card required if a restriction 6 appears on the DL 45)

  • DMV Printout (K-4 (last 10 years), not older than 30 days)

  • Driver's License Copy (Commercial Driver's License with P and S endorsement)

  • Health (MCSA 5876 - Medical Certificate)

  • Proof of HS Graduation (HS Diploma or HS Transcripts or Equivalent (ex: GED)

  • Resume (Current resume showing related experience)

Important Comments:
Twin Rivers Unified School District programs, activities, and practices shall be free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying based on actual or perceived race, color, ancestry, national origin, ethnic group identification, age, religion, marital or parental status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or gender expression; or on the basis of a person’s association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.
If you believe you have been subjected to discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying, you should immediately contact the school site principal, and/or Associate Superintendent HR, Wesley Marshall, at 916-566-1600 ext. 32114. A copy of TRUSD uniform complaint or TRUSD non-discrimination policy are available upon request.

I understand that any omission or falsely answered statement made by me on this application, or any supplement to it will be sufficient grounds for failure to employ or for my discharge should I become employed with the school district.